This book is called “Not Fat Because I Wanna Be” and it was written by LaNiyaha Bailey, a 6 year old girl who has been bullied at school because of her weight.
She tells her own story on NPR: http://www.npr.org/2011/03/15/134566074/6-Year-Old-Author-Fights-Stigma-Of-Child-Obesity
The Root writes about it here: http://www.theroot.com/buzz/not-fat-because-i-wanna-be
I can identify with LaNiyah’s story so, so much. And I hope her book helps to inspire other kids who are experiencing this particular pain, and lets other kids know that bullying is NEVER OK.
the fact that an innocent little girl was bullied enough to write this breaks my heart, but i do hope she can find strength and confidence to overcome it by helping others who are going through the same things she has.
I feel so sorry for this little girl, but I think it is wonderful that she decided to write a book at such a young age. I truly hope that kids and adults pick up this book and read it.
It’s important to remember that bullying starts at such a young age. I think it’s amazing that a 6 year old wrote a story, and I can only wish that this will open the eyes to kids and adults around her; as well as opening the eyes to everyone.
RT @TheEllenShow: You can help end bullying by donating $5 to @TrevorProject. Text “KIND” to 85944. Then respond “yes”. Pass it on!
It’s been forever since we’ve updated! So sorry! I know that a lot of you are back in school or are about to be, and I’ve been thinking a lot about making a movement out of this school year. I’m sure a lot of you watched the show “If You Really Knew Me.” I think it’s such a great idea and it’s something we’ve been wanting to do at different schools. But I was thinking, why wait for us to do it when you can do it yourselves? You are all different ages and attend different schools and you each have the power to change your school, your life and this world. If you feel that your school or grade is in need of understanding and change, talk to your principal about setting up a Challenge Day. If you don’t want to do it alone, as a friend to help you out or even a teacher.
I’m sure a lot of you started off the year excited about the possibility of having your friends in your classes only to find out that none of your closest friends are your classmates this year. Well, that’s a perfect reason to get to know new people. Step out of your comfort zone a little bit and get to know someone you normally wouldn’t talk to. You’d be surprised to find out how much you have in common. Make the best of this school year. Make a difference.
If any of you are planning on doing a Challenge Day at your school or have already had one, we’d love to hear about it! You can submit here. Also, if you’re nervous or scared about this upcoming school year, read inspiring stories shared by some of our followers here. I think they’ll help to make you feel at ease.
I hope you all have a great school year!
A secret was posted on PostSecret last night:
“I have lived in San Francisco since I was young. I am illegal. I am not wanted here. I don’t belong anywhere. This summer I plan to jump off the Golden Gate.”
The Facebook group “Please don’t jump” has over 15,000 members in less than 24 hours. GMH
(Editor’s Note: The group has 52,000 members now.)
I think this group is beautiful.
The other day I purchased something and noticed a thin piece of cardboard on the bottom of my bag that read, “I thought I was alone, but maybe I’m not.” It really caught my attention. There is so much truth in that sentence. When there is chaos in our lives, we seem to feel that we are alone. No one cares about us, wants us, needs us; but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We continuously push people away. Friends and family take notice in our change in attitude or the looks on our faces and ask if we’re okay, and how often do we say “I’m fine.” How often do we say “I don’t want to talk about it.” or “It’s nothing?” We say it more often than we should. So we begin to build these walls around us so no one can tear them down. The more people ask what’s wrong with us, the more we keep our feelings inside. They don’t care. They’re just asking because they feel obligated to takes over our thoughts. But the second they stop asking we get upset. Why don’t they care? I guess they gave up on me.
The thing is, no one ever gave up. No one ever stops caring so stop believing and telling yourself that they do. No matter what you think, you are not alone. You never ever are. So please always remember this. Your family, friends, teachers, neighbors, and Jordan and I will be here for you no matter what. Do not keep what’s troubling you to yourself. Let someone know because the longer you keep your feelings to yourself, the more it’ll trouble you and cause you to sink into depression. I know it isn’t always the easiest thing to do, but the weight you’ll feel lifted from your chest afterwards is always rewarding.
May you find serenity and tranquility in a world you may not always understand. May the pain you have known and the conflict you have experienced give you the strength to walk through life facing each new situation with courage and optimism. Always know that there are those whose love and understanding will always be there, even when you feel most alone. May you discover enough goodness in others to believe in a world of peace. May a kind word, a reassuring touch, and a warm smile be yours every day of your life, and may you give these gifts as well as receive them. Remember the sunshine when the storm seems unending.
Teach love to those who hate, and let that love embrace you as you go out into the world. May the teachings of those you admire become part of you, so that you may call upon them. Remember, those whose lives you have touched and whose have touched yours are always a part of you, even if the encounters were less than you would have wished. It is the content of the encounter that is more important than the form.
May you not become too concerned with material matters, but instead place immeasurable value on the goodness in your heart. Find time each day to see beauty and love in the world around you. Realize that each person has limitless abilities, but each of us is different in our own way. What you feel you lack in the present may become one of your strengths in the future. May you see your future as one filled with promise and possibility. Learn to view everything as a worthwhile experience. May you find enough inner strength to determine your own worth by yourself, and not be dependent on another’s judgment of your accomplishments. May you always feel loved.
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